The town of Hammonton, New Jersey, is set to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Festival, the oldest Italian festival in America. This historic event will take place from July 14 to July 19, 2024, and will draw thousands to the carnival grounds located at 1 Mt. Carmel Lane.
The festival began in 1875 when Italian immigrants came together to honor the Virgin Mary, expressing gratitude for their safe passage to America and a bountiful harvest. Over the years, this event has evolved into a vibrant celebration of culture, food, and community spirit.
Admission to the festival is free, making it accessible to everyone. A complimentary shuttle service will run nightly from Hammonton Middle School at 75 N. Liberty Street, available from 6 PM to 11 PM and starting early on the feast day, Wednesday, July 17, from 4 PM.
One of the highlights of the festival is the live entertainment, featuring various bands and a DJ on the main stage each night. Performances will commence at 8 PM, with a DJ setting the mood starting at 7 PM. In addition, carnival rides provided by Amusements of America will open every evening at 6 PM. Visitors can enjoy unlimited rides on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday with a wristband priced at $30.
For adults, the festival will offer a Beer Garden open from 5 PM to 11 PM each night, featuring popular beverages such as Coors Light, Yuengling, and a selection of hard seltzers.
Food lovers will find plenty to satisfy their cravings at the festival’s food stand, open daily from 11 AM to 1:30 PM and from 5 PM until closing. Traditional favorites, including sausage sandwiches and cannolis, will be available throughout the event.
The festivities will kick off with a preview day hosted by the Sons of Italy on Sunday, July 13, from 1 PM to 7 PM. This event will feature the “Running of the Sandwiches” and a spaghetti dinner at 427 N. 3rd St, Hammonton. A drone and fireworks show will follow that evening at 8:30 PM at Hammonton High School.
On the traditional feast day, Wednesday, July 17, a procession through the streets of Hammonton will commence at 4 PM, starting from the intersection of 3rd and French Street. This solemn event reflects the deep-rooted cultural significance of the festival.
The celebrations will culminate on Saturday, July 19, with a spectacular fireworks display scheduled for 10 PM, marking the end of this significant milestone in Hammonton’s history. As the community gathers to honor their heritage, the Mt. Carmel Festival continues to be a testament to the enduring spirit of the town’s Italian roots.